NAPLES, May 15 – A significant ceremony took place at the Città della Scienza in Naples yesterday, where 700 new doctors and dentists publicly declared their commitment to the medical profession by taking the Hippocratic Oath. The event highlighted crucial discussions surrounding the future of healthcare, including the impact of artificial intelligence, the rising issue of assaults on medical personnel, and the imperative to create attractive working conditions to retain young talent in Naples and across the Campania region.
Challenges and Opportunities in Modern Healthcare
The ceremony commenced with an address from two distinguished young professionals, Dr. Federica Di Gennaro and dentist Pasquale Fraudatario, who underscored the anxieties many young doctors and dentists face regarding their careers. They spoke of a profession undergoing profound transformation, marked by the advent of artificial intelligence in healthcare, the necessity to safeguard the national health service, and the urgent need to foster an environment where skilled professionals trained in Campania can thrive within the region.
Bruno Zuccarelli, President of the Order of Doctors-Surgeons and Dentists of Naples and Province, emphasized the dual nature of artificial intelligence. “Artificial intelligence, already present in many areas of diagnosis, research, the organization of care pathways, and health data management, represents a great opportunity, but it also imposes a responsibility: to govern innovation without losing the value of the doctor-patient relationship, professional ethics, and the centrality of the person,” Zuccarelli stated.
Defending and Strengthening the National Health Service
Zuccarelli further stressed the importance of defending and strengthening the national health service by ensuring quality care, equitable access, and sustainability. He highlighted the critical need to invest in professionals, particularly young individuals, through continuous training and improved working conditions. “For this to happen, it is crucial to invest in professionals, in young people, in continuous training, and in working conditions, so that doctors and dentists can operate in Campania in adequate, modern contexts capable of enhancing their skills,” he added. He urged regional politicians to transform this new phase into a stable investment in healthcare professions, young doctors and dentists, the quality of work, and the capacity of the region’s healthcare system to leverage its expertise.
Pietro Rutigliani, President of the Dental Council, echoed these sentiments, calling for a commitment to support young professionals in their career integration and to develop pathways that truly value their competencies. He also advocated for expanding access to dental care and prevention for all citizens in Campania, asserting that oral health should not be a privilege accessible only to those who can afford it.
A Promising Path for New Medical Graduates
The rectors of several universities offered their congratulations and insights. Matteo Lorito, Rector of Federico II University, described the Hippocratic Oath as a deeply emotional moment. “Seeing approximately 700 doctors swear an oath at the conclusion of a long and complex training path gives us the strength and determination to continue our commitment, welcoming and guiding thousands of students with new courses, new locations, and new investments,” Lorito remarked. He expressed hope that these young professionals would find fulfillment in their careers, fully develop their talents, and apply their expertise. Lorito affirmed Federico II’s enduring commitment to the future of the community, ensuring Naples maintains its rich tradition in medical education.
Antonio Garofalo, Rector of Parthenope University, joined in the well wishes, noting that these young individuals are embarking on a compelling journey, aware that their profession is a mission and a vocation that demands unwavering dedication. He highlighted the inauguration of a new degree course in Medicine and Surgery at Parthenope, made possible with the support of the Campania Region. “We seek to contribute to the Campania system and offer opportunities to our young professionals in their homeland. Let us remember that Campania has the highest presence of young people in Italy, but it is also a region with its difficulties, with 60% of students in the no-tax area. As public universities, we have an obligation to provide opportunities for all our young people,” Garofalo explained.
The ceremony was attended by notable figures, including Governor Fico, Mayor Gaetano Manfredi, Cardinal Mimmo Battaglia, and university rectors Matteo Lorito (Federico II), Marcellino Monda (representing Gianfranco Nicoletti of Luigi Vanvitelli), Professor Paola Villani (representing Lucio d’Alessandro of Suor Orsola Benincasa), and Antonio Garofalo (Parthenope).
